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Bangabandhu Satellite-1 ushers new hope

Dr. Forqan Uddin Ahmed :Human instinct is to know the unknown, to see the unseen and to explore the unexplored. Nothing is impossible in this world. There are many mysterious things in this vast universe. With a narrow mind if one tries to think the vastness one may be lost. It is only the indomitable courage, determination, will-force which may help one to reach the vast area of universe. One cannot see it or imagine it with his/her normal or white eye. It is the power of imagination, deep thought-line and one's mind's eye which empower to attain the destination over seas, ocean, sky and beyond.In the near past, we have won to establish our rights in sea. For a long time it was under the judgment of International court of justice. At last by our strong diplomacy, it was settled and court's verdict was declared in favor of us. It might appear to some of our neighbors as a matter of jealousy and intolerance. We see their jaundiced eye. We may be jeopardized by jealousy for time-being. We may be harassed or loserer but ultimately, we will over come the clumsy situation or any man made crisis.Over the period of time, it happens that narrowness and jealousy is undertaken or subjugated for their mischievous actions towards others. Very often in such cases nature takes its hand. There may be an indication of weakness in the lines stated above. There is a proverb- 'pride Goethe before destruction.' There is an adverse effect of any and every excess. However, my topic is on Bangabandhu Satellite-1. This is indeed a big job done from our country. This is a victory of our diplomacy. Once, we had a dream of it. Today it is a reality. Our name & fame now is crossing across the sea. With this victory, our image has been built up throughout the world. It is our responsibility to up-hold this prestige. It crosses to the high-ups and going beyond space. Ascending of Bangabandhu Satellite-1 is undoubtedly a miracle like performance by our profound thinkers, activists, diplomats and other concerned. 19 April, 1975 India in this sub-continent could get a chance of access to space by ascending their satellite with the support of Soviet Union. Meanwhile, Pakistan and Sri-lanka could make a room of satellite system with the support of China. But in South Asia, Bangladesh is an exception. Bangladesh with her own initiative, with its own financial support on ascending of Bangabandhu Satellite-1 has created a successful access to space. This is indeed significant. By it we have become a part of history.On the eve of our graduation form LDC to developing country we planned for it. Many of our big brothers had their blinkings of eyes. Many development partners were amazed to see it. When BTRC, the representatives of ITU applied for 102 degree axis line of East longitude. 20 member countries of ITU like China, Australia protested it, although we belong to it as an elected council member of ITU. Many assume that, those are yet to be settled from our diplomatic part and for our limitations in policy sharing with the ITU policy holders. At last, Bangladesh hired 119.1 degree East longitude from Inter-spotonik of Russia and fired in the line of its target. For Bangladesh its road to development was never smooth. After its independence, Bangabandhu even spared no pains to build war-ravaged Bangladesh into its self-reliance. Ignoring all the oppositions and limitations Bangabandhu could launch almost an abandoned Bethbonia geo-stationary satellite centre.The inaugural session took place on 14th June, 1975 and Bangabandhu formally opened and declared the satellite activities. From its initial success our honorable Prime Minister has expedited this journey towards its success and optimal goal through ascending Bangabandhu Satellite-1 by its maximum use, capabilities and with our own resources. This is undoubtedly magnificent, marvelous and unique activity which may accelerate us to achieve digital Bangladesh. This is spell-bound and matter of pleasure to a nation. It is in fect the precedence and record of history and time immemorial. It is also a breakthrough in the line of air communication and capturing aerial resources. (Data and information collected from an article published on 13th May, 2018 in the daily Janakantho by Reza Selim, a friend of myself).We are grateful to India, for its act of kind cooperation in the field of communication channel. Bangladesh with the support of India was successful to send one SAARC Satellite Transponder of 36 Mega horse located at 97.5 degree East longitudinal part. Other than Pakistan all other SAARC member countries could avail the opportunity. Nepal is still in line of process. In spite of opposition from ITU or not having the axis line, Bangladesh in an alternative way, its desired satellite could enter into space by its own arrangements and efforts. As per outer space treaty in 1967, every country is supposed to take the self responsibility abiding by the international code and ethics.Unfortunately, we were deprived of the rights. Now the right is established. Our future prospects are brighter now. Mean while, the Bangabandhu Satellite-1 has captured 40 transponders. We may even lend some of the transponders to others. It they are properly utilized our broadcast and communication arena will be more and more shining. But its use must be pro-service and in research line rather than that of recreational. That must be our prime motto. We are to be prepared for the 2nd and 3rd satellite so the area of scientific research need to be prioritized where we are in fact far behind. These scientific researches will help us to reduce our poverty, expand education and enhance health protection. The world will have a surprise to see our innovation and research. With the innovative idea from our scientists, the outside world diplomats will give us due honor and their heads will be vowed to us. Now the thing is that we must utilize our brain and intellect. Research activities must be carried forward for a prestigious and dignified Bangladesh.